My Story
- I was born with epilepsy because my brain did not get enough oxygen.
- I had seizures as a child until age 12.
- They returned at age 31 and continued until 43.
- I have now been seizure-free.
Epilepsy is different for everyone.
One person I met had their first seizure during their first driving lesson.
What Epilepsy Means
- Epilepsy = repeated seizures caused by unusual brain activity.
- Seizures are unpredictable and different for everyone.
Mortality & Risk
- People with epilepsy may live 10–12 years less on average.
- Death rates are 2–3 times higher than people without epilepsy.
- Average risk each year: ~1.23%
- SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) happens to about 1 in 1,000 people per year.
Most people with epilepsy live long, full lives.
Risks depend on:
- How often seizures happen
- Severity of seizures
- Medication and health conditions
- Type of epilepsy
- Access to medical care
Staying Safe
- Seizure management is important
- Plan ahead for safety
- SUDEP is rare and linked to uncontrolled seizures
🧩 Easy Read Module 2 – Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
What is Autism?
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Autism = a lifelong condition affecting:
- Communication
- Social skills
- How the brain processes information
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People with autism may:
- Struggle with change or new routines
- Be sensitive to sounds, lights, touch, or smells
- Need predictable routines
- Have different ways of interacting socially
Autism affects how the brain works, not intelligence.
Common Difficulties
People with autism may:
- Find it hard to make friends
- Struggle to express thoughts or feelings
- Have trouble communicating clearly
- Feel stressed by new situations or changes
- Need extra time to adjust
Support Needs
- Education: at school or home
- Daily life skills: cooking, cleaning, shopping, budgeting
- Personal care: washing, dressing
- Emotional support: managing stress
Co-Occurring Conditions
- ADHD
- Learning difficulties (dyslexia, dyspraxia)
- Anxiety or depression
- Other mental health challenges
Strengths & Understanding
- Autism is not an illness
- It is a different way of experiencing the world
- With support, autistic people can live happy, full lives
- Everyone deserves understanding, respect, and acceptance
Autism Across Life
- Signs may change with age
- Adults may mask traits (hide differences)
- Early diagnosis helps with support and understanding
- Screening tools, assessments, and therapy can help
Mental Health & Emotions
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Sensory challenges and social struggles may lead to:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Low self-esteem
- Support may include: therapy, peer groups, and accommodations
Therapy & Support
- Occupational therapy: sensory needs, routines, independence
- Speech and language therapy
- Visual schedules for daily life
- Social support and accommodations at school or work
Quick Key Points
- Autism = lifelong neurodevelopmental condition
- ADHD, learning differences, and mental health conditions may occur together
- Support, understanding, and patience are essential
- Everyone’s experience is unique
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